Correct Option
The correct option is (c).
Explanation
Rajaraja I (985–1014 CE) is regarded as one of the greatest emperors of the Chola dynasty. His reign marked the revival of Chola power, characterized by extensive military conquests, administrative consolidation, and significant contributions to Dravidian architecture.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. Rajaraja I was a formidable and powerful ruler, not a weak one. He successfully expanded the Chola territories significantly. His military achievements include the defeat of the Chera navy at Trivandrum, the conquest of Madurai (capturing the Pandya king), and the invasion of Sri Lanka, where he annexed the northern territory to his empire. He also conquered the Maldives.
- Statement 2 is Correct. He is credited with reorganizing the administration of the empire to ensure efficiency. A notable administrative reform was the land survey conducted in 1000 CE, which helped in fixing the assessment of revenue and standardizing taxation.
- Statement 3 is Correct. Rajaraja I was a devout Shaivite and a great patron of architecture. He constructed the Rajarajeshvara temple (also known as the Brihadisvara temple) at his capital, Thanjavur. Completed around 1010 CE, it is considered a masterpiece of South Indian architecture.
Key Takeaway: Rajaraja I was a powerful imperial ruler known for his military expansion into Sri Lanka and the Maldives, the reorganization of the administrative system through land surveys, and the construction of the Brihadisvara temple at Thanjavur.